PhD in Italian Studies/ PhD in Film and Media Studies in New Haven United States | Yale University

Yale's Italian Studies Department provides a Ph.D. program focused on Italian literature while incorporating broader interdisciplinary approaches, including historical contexts, rhetorical analysis, critical theory, comparative literature, visual arts, religious and philosophical inquiry, and studies spanning medieval, Renaissance, modern, and contemporary Italian works. For undergraduates, the department has dual objectives: teaching Italian language proficiency across all levels and fostering a comprehensive understanding of Italy's literary and cultural heritage. The Italian major is a humanities-focused program highlighting Italy's enduring influence on Western civilization's intellectual traditions. A key principle of the program is that language study offers dual cultural insights—illuminating both foreign traditions and one's own cultural background. Foundational courses equip students with robust training in Italian language, literature, and history. Additionally, the department collaborates with Film and Media Studies to offer a joint Ph.D. in Italian and Film and Media Studies. More information can be found under Film and Media Studies. Prospective students applying to this dual program must clearly specify their interest in both departments within their application materials.